Tips for Physicians to Make and Keep a Lasting Impression

A trip to the doctor’s office or hospital can be daunting for many people, which is why making your patient feel comfortable and relaxed is important. Your impression begins the minute they walk through your practice doors.

Tip 2: Train your front desk staff to be warm and welcoming. Everyone’s job can get stressful, but your front desk staff should make patients their #1 priority. Talk to them about smiling and ensuring that the patient knows they are glad to see them.

Tip 3: Meet and Greet. As simple as it may sound, greeting your patient, shaking his/her hand and introducing yourself is a great way to make your patient feel more comfortable and at ease. Be sure to make direct eye contact too.

Tip 4: Time. In today’s world, maximizing clinic time is key. However, make sure you’re giving your patient enough time for them to explain their issue or condition. Even if you are running late, no one wants to feel rushed and without enough time, they may feel like you’re not listening.

Tip 5: Make arrangements to follow up. By suggesting that you meet with the patient again as a follow up demonstrates that you care about them and their progress.

Tip 6:Special event cards. Keep a database of your patients’ birthdays and send them happy birthday postcards. These could also be used as appointment reminders, depending on your practice.